Inle Lake
2
Virtually every visitor to Myanmar (Burma) makes it here at some point, but Inle Lake (p 177 )
is so awe-inspiring and large that everybody comes away with a diff erent experience. If you’re
counting days, you’ll most likely be hitting the hotspots: water-bound temples, shore-bound
markets and fl oating gardens. If you have more time, consider day hikes or exploring the more
remote corners of the lake. Either way, the cool weather and friendly folk and that placid pool of
ink-like water are bound to fi nd a permanent place in your memory.Bagan
3
More than 3000 Buddhist temples are scattered across the plains of Bagan (Pagan; p 149 ),
site of the fi rst Burmese kingdom. Dating back to between the 11th and 13th centuries, the vast
majority of the temples have been renovated, as Bagan remains an active religious site and place
of pilgrimage. Yes, there are tour buses and crowds at the most popular sunset-viewing spots, but
they can be avoided. Pedal off on a bike and have your own adventure amid the not-so-ruined
temples, or fl oat over the temple tops in a hot-air balloon. Buddhist monks, Ananda Pahto FestivalANDERS BLOMQVIST/LONELY PLANET IMAGES ©SARA-JANE CLELAND/LONELY PLANET IMAGES ©
7